On 11/15/2018 the Merced County Sheriff’s Office Supervise Release Team (SRT) received information of a white male adult who was impersonating a Merced County Sheriff’s Deputy in the 1100 Block of Kelso Drive in Atwater. During the course of this investigation Jeremiah Foster was found in possession of several Merced County Sheriff and Atwater Police Department uniforms and Foster was wearing one of the uniforms and a replica firearm which had been altered to make it look real at the time of his arrest. Foster was also in possession of two replica firearms, a replica tin badge, a crossbow and law enforcement tactical belt. He is on probation and electronic monitor out of San Joaquin County. SRT Deputies arrested Foster for impersonating a peace officer, altering/possession of a replica firearm, and possession of a dirk/dagger.
The second suspect Denero Waters who resides with Foster was arrested for a probation violation. Both Foster and Waters were booked into the Merced County Jail.
Deputies are currently investigating how Foster and Waters came into possession of the uniforms and any connection they have to the recent impersonation cases reported to the Merced County Sheriff’s Office.
This is an active investigation and we ask if anyone has any information regarding these incidents to please contact the Merced County Sheriff’s Office at (209)385-7445. Your tip can remain anonymous.
